Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

Which part of a description narrows identification down to the subject tract?

1. Qualifying Clause

2. Body

3. Caption or Preamble

4. Augmenting Clause

The correct answer is: Caption or Preamble

The correct choice is the caption or preamble because this part of a legal description sets the context for the property being described. It typically includes preliminary information such as the name of the property owner, the type of document, and a brief reference to the land being conveyed, all of which help to narrow down the identification of the subject tract. The caption or preamble essentially frames the entire description, directing the reader's attention to the specific parcel of land in question. It functions as an introductory statement that outlines the scope and elements of the description that will follow, making it crucial for identifying the particular property involved in any legal transaction or survey. In contrast, other elements in a legal description have different roles. The body provides detailed measurements and boundaries but does not lead readers to understanding who owns the property or its context in its entirety. The qualifying clause may offer additional conditions or specifications but serves to clarify aspects of the property rather than narrowing down the identity of the subject tract. The augmenting clause can add supplementary information, yet it does not inherently establish the identity of the land.